The Pet Resource Center in Hillsborough County is urgently appealing for dog adoptions as it faces overcrowding. As of Thursday morning, the shelter is home to 320 dogs, significantly exceeding its intended capacity of around 180 dogs. In an effort to alleviate the situation, the center is waiving all adoption fees, which typically range from $85 for larger dogs to $125 for those under 25 pounds.
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Adoption rates have declined sharply in 2026, with shelter officials reporting 146 fewer dogs adopted from June 1 to August 31 compared to the same period last year. While adoptions surged during the pandemic, they have since dropped both locally and nationally.
The Pet Resource Center, which is the county's only open-admissions shelter, is focusing on finding permanent homes for its animals but is also encouraging community members unable to adopt to consider joining its foster program. The shelter is collaborating with pet rescue organizations and foster homes but indicates that additional support is necessary.
Furthermore, local animal advocates are advocating for changes to the shelter. Last week, they urged county commissioners to expedite the renovation or rebuilding of the Pet Resource Center, which has been in operation since the 1980s. County officials mentioned that recommendations from staff may be forthcoming next year.
The center, located at 440 North Falkenburg Road in Tampa, accepts dogs and cats of all ages, breeds, and sizes.